Reform and policy recommendations for incoming Weah administration in Liberia

Transparency International and the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), call on the incoming government of Liberia led by the Congress for Democratic Change and President-elect George Weah to follow through on commitments to clean up government and tackle corruption.

CENTAL, Transparency International’s chapter in the West African nation, has issued a series of reform and policy recommendations to the new government, in advance of the inauguration of President Weah on Monday.

“Liberia has a protracted history of corruption and bad governance, which have consistently undermined sustainable development and effectiveness and efficiency in public service,” said Anderson Miamen, executive director of CENTAL.

“Stakeholders in Liberia and around the world are eagerly waiting to see whether the new administration will break away from the ugly past and robustly attack corruption, or whether impunity and the shielding of allegedly corrupt officials will persist,” continued Miamen.

Based on global best practice and the past experience of anti-corruption campaigners in Liberia, the following recommendations are important first steps through which the new government can pragmatically deal with corruption in the public sector.

Ensure the independence of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) and give it direct prosecutorial power to quickly investigate and prosecute corruption cases.

Enact a Corrupt Offences Act to clearly define and provide sanctions for various forms of corruption.

Enact a Whistleblower Protection Law to encourage more Liberians to freely report acts of corruption and other integrity-related issues.

Require all public officials, including the president, to declare their assets, irrespective of their positions or connections to superiors in government. The government must independently verify and publish these declarations of assets.

Review and impartially implement reports and recommendations by integrity institutions in a timely manner, and establish dedicated committees and bodies for investigating fraud and other forms of corruption.

Audit the legislature just like any other branch of government or institution that receives public funds. The 52nd and 53rd legislatures in particular should be audited and any recommendations from the audit report fully implemented.

Increase financial support to integrity institutions and enable them to properly function.

In addition, those appointed to key positions in government should be of impeccable character; willing and committed to serve in the best interest of the people rather than to acquire illicit wealth.

The culture of impunity and shielding of alleged and proven corrupt officials must be abolished. The President must generate the necessary political will to prosecute officials accused of corruption and the abuse of public resources.

The government must also work to establish a safe and secure environment for anti-corruption agencies, civil society organisations, media and other advocates. The current space for constructive engagement between stakeholders should be maintained and broadened further in order to consolidate efforts against corruption.

CENTAL has been a key partner in the fight against corruption in Liberia and wishes to remain constructively engaged under the new administration. The organisation will be tracking the government’s progress on the areas outlined above.